For example, if you’ve ever wondered why your underwear sometimes has what looks like bleach stains, you’re not alone. This common concern has been raised online by many women seeking an explanation. The good news is that these patches have nothing to do with your washing machine, as some might have assumed.
According to Dr. Vanessa MacKay of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the cause of these spots is related to the body’s natural processes. “The vagina has a self-cleaning mechanism through natural secretions. It contains beneficial bacteria that serve to protect it,” she explains.
The National Institutes of Health notes that the typical vaginal pH level ranges from 3.8 to 5.0, making it mildly acidic compared to the neutral pH of 7. Dr. MacKay adds that clear or white vaginal discharge is entirely normal and healthy. However, disruptions to the natural balance of this discharge can lead to infections, making it important to pay attention to any unusual changes.
In this era of information sharing, the internet continues to be an essential tool for discovering answers to the questions that arise in our daily lives, offering both clarity and peace of mind.